Today I went with my friend Kimberly to visit some of her patients. She works in the Somali Refugee area in Nairobi. Of course it was an eventful day as you can imagine with many new experiences.

Everywhere we received a warm welcome. At one place we were invited for lunch. The traditional way is to sit on the floor and share a meal. Today camel was on the menu. It was delicious and we enjoyed our meal. Of course our hosts encouraged us to eat more, a polite way for us to show that we appreciate the hospitality. 

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Entering this part of Nairobi takes you again to another world. Here are some of the pictures of the life there

Today I visited the children's home and brought them some t-shirts from our church. Look closely and you can read "North Park Church". Miriam wrote me a very sweet note, she is 12 years old and a very kind girl. Have a great day, Maria

Today I skyped with my Sunday School small group, the kids and I were thrilled to talk to them! Thank you!

Dear Friends!

Today “Word of Life” hosted a woman seminar! I spoke about the parable of the two lost sons from Luke 15. As I prepared for the seminar I was again amazed how the Fathers showed his love to both sons. It stirred my heart to talk about this amazing deep and pursuing love. The seminar was well attended and to my amazement some men showed up too. Among the participants were some very dear friends. But of course you always make “new friends” here in Kenya. During a break time I talked with a group of women and we realized that we represented  four different continent from around the world, meeting here in Kenya, isn't that fantastic! I enjoyed the teaching time. The interactions were inspiring and encouraging and the feed back was good! My time here in Kenya is so rich and filled with amazing opportunities to minister. Here are some pictures of today’s event. Have a great Sunday, Maria

 

 

 

Jambo,
Today we organized a play day with the kids. The students from my class assisted me and I believe they had as much fun as the kids, drawing pictures, working with play-doe, puzzling, designing bracelets, watching a movie together, eating a nice lunch....

Marrria, Marrria, Marrria, the sound of my name  echos through the house when the kids see me coming. It sounds so sweet; the "r"  rolled beautifully in the back of their little throats and its delightful to see their eyes radiating joy, the big smile revealing the little white teeth. I wish I could capture it on film or have you their to experience, my heart is thrilled by the out pour of their love. Here are some of the pictures of today's play time! 

 

Dear Friends

My teaching week is in full swing. Practical Christian living is the topic. Don't be surprised when issues like “Is it right to beat your wife/husband” come up or you discuss “Can you have more then one wife?” Another interesting topic is “Do you pay a dowry for your wife?” There are plenty of other great topics discussed, issues like “justice”, “death penalty” or “poverty”! In between we learn about Justification by faith, Christ's Righteousness, Adoption, Sanctification, Holy Spirit and many more important theological truth. The group of students is delightful as you can see and I enjoy to get to know them.

Afternoon activities are filled with visiting the orphanage. Today Denys, one of the students, went with me, we had a great time there. He took some pictures, enjoy it! 

 

 

Valentine's Day in Nairobi

Leah & Peter invited me to a church dinner for Valentine's day. It was fun to be there, celebrating God's love! Being the only “Musungo” (colorless person) among all Africans was a interesting experience.

Today I experience a bit “village living”. Shopping is a bit different here. Again, I am the only white person around and a true novelty. As I walk along the road passing cars are slowing down to have a close up look at me.

Wherever you go the kids are excited to shake your hand and love it if you take their picture!